Is a Dodge Charger a V-6 or V8?
The Dodge Charger is available with both V-6 and V8 engine options. The base model Charger comes equipped with a 3.6-liter V-6 engine, while higher trim levels offer more powerful V8 options.
V-6 Engine Options
The standard engine in the Dodge Charger is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 that produces 292 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This V-6 engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and provides a good balance of power and fuel efficiency for the Charger.
V8 Engine Options
In addition to the V-6, the Dodge Charger is also available with several V8 engine choices. The most popular V8 option is the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, which generates 370 horsepower and 395 lb-ft of torque. Higher-performance Charger models like the Scat Pack and Hellcat come equipped with even more powerful 6.4-liter and 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engines.
Choosing Between V-6 and V8
The decision between a V-6 or V8 Dodge Charger will depend on the driver's priorities. The V-6 model offers better fuel economy and a lower starting price, while the V8 variants provide significantly more power and performance. Ultimately, both engine options provide an engaging driving experience in the iconic Dodge Charger.
What's faster, a V6 or a V8?
Generally, a V8 is faster than a V6 due to having more cylinders, which typically creates more power and torque. However, a V6 can be faster than a V8 depending on factors like the vehicle's weight, the engine's specific design (e.g., turbocharging, direct injection), and other components that influence performance.
This video explains the differences between V6 and V8 engines, including their impact on performance and efficiency: 1mHistory of Simple ThingsYouTube · Jun 23, 2025
Why a V8 is often faster
- More power and torque: With eight cylinders instead of six, a V8 engine has more potential for power and torque, which translates to quicker acceleration.
- Higher towing capacity: The extra power in a V8 makes it better suited for towing and hauling heavy loads.
When a V6 can be faster
- Turbocharging: A modern turbocharged V6 can produce performance comparable to or even exceeding a naturally aspirated V8. For example, a turbocharged V6 in a truck might have more horsepower and torque than a V8 in the same model.
- Power-to-weight ratio: A lighter vehicle with a V6 can be faster than a heavier vehicle with a V8, especially if the V6 has a better power-to-weight ratio.
- Modern technology: Advances in engine management systems and other technologies allow some V6 engines to achieve impressive performance metrics that narrow the gap with V8s.
Other factors that affect speed
- Aerodynamics: The overall shape of the vehicle and how it moves through the air plays a significant role in its top speed.
- Gearing: The vehicle's transmission and gear ratios are critical for how well a vehicle accelerates.
- Other engine components: Factors like the engine's displacement, compression ratio, and valve timing also influence its overall power and speed.
Which charger comes with a V8?
The 2022 Dodge Charger also offers the available 392 HEMI V8 engine. The 392 HEMI V8 comes equipped as standard on the all-new Dodge Charger Scat Pack model. The 392 HEMI V8 is capable of delivering up to 485 horsepower and up to 475 lb-ft of torque.
Which Dodge Charger has a V6?
Trim Levels Chart: Dodge Charger Models
| Dodge Charger SXT | Dodge Charger GT | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 | 3.6L Pentastar V-6 |
| Horsepower | 292 | 300 |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 264 lb-ft |
| Wheel Size | 17-in | 20-in |
Are chargers V6 or V8?
A V6 Charger is a good option for daily driving due to its better fuel economy and lower purchase and insurance costs, while a V8 Charger provides superior performance with more horsepower and torque. The V6 is a balanced choice for everyday use, while the V8 is for those prioritizing a powerful muscle car experience with higher performance.
This video compares the performance of a V6 and V8 Charger: 59sRP ProductionsYouTube · Sep 29, 2015
V6 Charger
- Engine: Typically a 3.6L Pentastar V6, producing around 300 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Better fuel efficiency compared to the V8, making it more economical for daily driving.
- Performance: Offers strong performance for a daily driver, but cannot match the raw acceleration and torque of the V8.
- Cost: Generally has a lower starting price and lower insurance costs.
- AWD Option: V6 models are the only ones available with all-wheel drive (AWD) in many configurations, which can be beneficial in inclement weather.
This video discusses the performance of a V6 engine in a Charger: 55sRacerXYouTube · Apr 6, 2024
V8 Charger
- Engine: Comes with HEMI V8 options, such as the 5.7L or more powerful 392 cubic inch (6.4L) engine.
- Fuel Economy: Significantly lower fuel efficiency than the V6.
- Performance: Delivers a more powerful, thrilling muscle car experience with greater horsepower and torque for faster acceleration.
- Cost: Higher starting price and potentially higher insurance costs.
- AWD Option: Not typically available, as the focus is on rear-wheel drive performance.
This video discusses the performance of a V8 engine in a Charger: 58sOur Ride LifeYouTube · Sep 8, 2024
